Court’s Nick Howe makes history with Industry Personality accolade

Court Catering Equipment MD Nick Howe picked up the Industry Personality Award at this year’s CEDA Grand Prix Awards ceremony, held at the Hilton St George’s Park hotel in Burton on Trent as part of the CEDA Conference.

His victory marked the first time that both father and son had won the honour, as Nick’s father John, the founder of the west London-based distributor, was presented with the accolade in 2003.

Studying at Kingston Polytechnic, Nick joined Court in 1980 just after John established the firm in 1976, and he worked his way up to the MD role in 1996.

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Simultaneously he was a world championship rower, winning the title in 1979 in the lightweight four boat, and then in 1980 as part of the lightweight eights. The same year he stepped up to the Court MD role he also became a senior rowing coach for the British Olympic team.

During his work career he first sold spares before moving into sales and learning from his father along the way. His colleagues report he oversees a work hard, play hard ethos and encourages individuals to shine as part of a team.

Fellow sector executives describe Nick as hard working, dedicated, honest, has integrity and a great servant and contributor to the industry.

After he collected the CEDA trophy, Nick said: “To get this award is quite staggering and surprising. I really appreciate it but don’t deserve it!”

Citing his wife Sarah as his rock, he also thanked the Court team. “I am proud to have been in the industry for the last 40 years. It’s a credit to my team that we still have many of the same customers now as then.